Diagnostic Tests

In addition to blood-work and a full neurological exam, including a detailed health history, your doctor will order further diagnostic tests if he or she suspects epilepsy. Below are some of the tests that they use to help with diagnosing epilepsy.

Computed Tomographic Scan

A CT or CAT scan is a series of detailed x-rays, taken at different angles in the brain. They indicate structural abnormalities in the brain or skull that may relate to seizures.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI uses magnetic fields instead of x-rays, to produce two- and three-dimensional images of the brain. It detects brain tumours and other brain abnormalities.

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging – A functional MRI provides information about active brain tissue function and blood delivery. It can find the exact location of a seizure area. Doctors use it to measure small metabolic changes in the active part of the brain. It also maps the areas used for thought, speech, movement and sensation.

Video EEG Monitoring

This test records brain waves on an EEG while the patient is also monitored by video. The purpose of the test is to capture a seizure event on video and observe by EEG what is happening in the brain. In this way, doctors can tell if the event is epileptic (caused by unusual electrical activity in the brain). This test also helps to pinpoint the location of the seizure activity. As such, it is part of the pre-surgical examination for a patient who may undergo surgery.